Women forming bonds at Union Gospel Mission

The Union Gospel Mission in Coeur d'Alene has been open for only a few months, but in just a short few months, the women staying there have already formed bonds, strengthened by the challenges in their life and the future they have to look forward too.

Together they will ring in the New Year.

"Probably still searching for my self because I didn't know who I was anymore," is how one woman, who wishes to stay anonymous, said.

She walked into the mission in October; at the time she was living in hotels, unsure of who she was and where she was going, until she came to the mission. It's here that women can work on themselves, academically, emotionally and physically.

"This very woman we interviewed today, she three months ago wouldn't not even let her hands on camera. Today she wants her story to be known," said Debi Pauletto, with the Union Gospel Mission.

It's a story complete with strength and self confidence. Through classes, the woman figured out she has good people skills.

"For me it's more customer service, helping people and I love that," she said.

She's also focusing on spirituality, while working on direction for her life. It's been a bumpy journey she's sharing with others she now calls her best friends. Together they will welcome 2013 at the Coeur d'Alene mission.

"I just never dreamed of being this peaceful and happy in my life," said the resident.

It's just the beginning to a long road of healing, but then again it's also just the beginning of a new year.

"For me it's a hope for the future. I didn't have that last year. I cried all through New Years. I didn't know where I was going to be. This year I have such a bright future, and a place and a home that's beautiful," she said.